2004

83 Charlie Knott Jr

Charlie Knott JR, was born Southampton, England, 26 November 1914 he was known affectionately as ‘CJ’, and was the managing director of the Southampton ice rink and the successful Vikings for 11 years in the 1950s and 1960s. A keen advocate of the home-bred player, he promoted amateur hockey at Southampton with a dash of showmanship, publicising the city as 'the Heart of English Ice Hockey'.

The British Ice Hockey Association, the sport's governing body at the time, made him an England selector in 1959 and a year later appointed him to their ruling council in recognition of his enthusiasm for British players. Virtually all the Vikings had learned the game in this country, almost half of them coming from the city itself, in contrast to most of the leading clubs who relied on foreign imports.

During Charlie's reign, the club won five BIHA Cups and three Southern Cups and several Vikings represented their country in the World Championships. 'CJ' himself acted as Britain's official delegate to the 1961 tournament in Switzerland.

Always approachable and immaculately attired in an evening suit, he was often seen chatting to his customers or aspiring young players. One of the Vikings recently recalled him as "the finest gentleman I've ever met".

Charles, who died in his home town on 27 February 2003, aged 88, was best known in sporting circles as a successful amateur bowler with Hampshire County Cricket Club between 1938 and 1954. A road in a new housing estate next to the site of the Southampton rink (now demolished) is named Charles Knott Gardens in tribute to him and his father.